Alabama nonprofit to name new training center after fallen airman

2nd Mission Alliance plans to build the Major Alex Klinner Leadership & Training Center at its 26-acre Selah property, creating 5,000 square feet of covered space for the group’s K9, equine and veteran programs. Maj. Alex Klinner, one of six U.S. military members killed in a KC-135 crash in Iraq while attempting to refuel and assist in the war against Iran. (Sarah Rose Harrill via GoFundMe) (Tribune News Service) — A faith-based nonprofit serving veterans and first responders will break ground on a new training facility in Opelika, Ala., that honors an Air Force officer killed earlier this year in Iraq. 2nd Mission Alliance plans to build the Major Alex Klinner Leadership & Training Center at its 26-acre Selah property, creating 5,000 square feet of covered space for the group’s K9, equine and veteran programs, according to a news release.

An opening ceremony is scheduled for 8 a.m. on Oct. 13, 2026. Klinner, 33, died in March when a KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq during operations against Iran. He was one of six crew members killed in the crash and one of 18 U.S. service members killed since the war began more than six months ago. Bill Schwenk, president and founder of 2nd Mission Alliance, said the decision to name the facility after Klinner reflects a commitment to